Matsutake mushrooms are a prized autumn delicacy in Japan, with most being imported due to declining domestic production.
Domestic production peaked in 1941 at 12,000 tons, but has since declined to less than 100 tons in recent years, with 14 tons produced in 2019 and 45 tons in 2024.
The decline is attributed to factors such as loss of satoyama, pest damage, and a lack of younger workers.
Matsutake mushrooms and rice steamed in an earthenware pot are a quintessential autumn delicacy in Japan.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, imports are necessary to satisfy the demand for matsutake mushrooms.
Author's summary: Japan relies heavily on imports for matsutake mushrooms due to low domestic production.